Former Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Chikoya has suggested that concerns over alleged corruption, bribery and match-fixing in Zimbabwean football have played a significant role in accelerating the country's plans to introduce Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, putting it ahead of South Africa in the process.

Zimbabwe are preparing to introduce VAR in domestic football, with the technology expected to make its competitive debut on November 28 during the Chibuku Super Cup final between Hardrock and Highlanders at Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe. If successfully implemented, Zimbabwe would become one of the first countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to use the technology in domestic competitions.

Chikoya believes the move has become increasingly necessary because of growing concerns about refereeing standards and allegations that some individuals are attempting to influence match results through financial incentives. According to the former Warriors international, such concerns have increased pressure on football authorities to introduce measures that can improve transparency and accountability in the game.

The former Pirates defender believes VAR could help reduce controversial refereeing decisions, particularly in matches where important moments can determine the outcome of competitions. He also questioned the decision to bring referees from Kenya to officiate certain Zimbabwean matches, arguing that appointing foreign officials does not automatically eliminate the possibility of external influence.

Chikoya further highlighted the growing financial investment in Zimbabwean football, explaining that clubs are spending more money on players and coaches. This has naturally increased expectations regarding professionalism, fairness and the overall quality of domestic competitions.

Zimbabwe's football association has reportedly received support from FIFA and Sakunda Holdings to facilitate the introduction of VAR, while referees have been undergoing the necessary training.

South Africa, meanwhile, is still working through several technical and administrative challenges before introducing the technology. SAFA has identified referee training, infrastructure, broadcasting compatibility and stakeholder coordination as key requirements.

Zimbabwe's progress has therefore raised questions about why South Africa, despite having a more established football industry, has yet to implement VAR in its domestic competitions.

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